7 Best All Terrain Tires for Mazda CX-5: Confident Traction and Comfortable Ride

Mike
By Mike
Certified Professional Automotive Mechanic – Owner and Editor of VehicleRuns
Last Updated: May 9, 2026

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If you use your Mazda CX-5 on varied surfaces, choosing the right all terrain tires affects safety, comfort, and daily drivability. The right tires help you maintain traction on loose gravel, wet roads, and light mud while preserving highway manners and a quiet ride. This guide presents our seven shortlisted options for Mazda CX-5 all terrain tires. Each pick was chosen for a balance of grip, road noise, and expected tread life. Below we explain the factors that mattered and why these options made the list before you review the full product details.

Top Picks at a Glance

Best Reviewed
A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback
Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17)Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17)
Most Popular
A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence
Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Light Truck TirePirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Light Truck Tire
Best Quality
Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid
SuperATV XT Warrior Off Road Tire — 32×10-15SuperATV XT Warrior Off Road Tire — 32x10-15
Best Budget
The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably
GT Radial Adventuro ATX All-Terrain 265/65R17 TireGT Radial Adventuro ATX All-Terrain 265/65R17 Tire
Most Sold
A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again
Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure LT275/70R18 TireGoodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure LT275/70R18 Tire
Best Value for Money
The sweet spot between price and what you get
Cooper Discoverer Road and Trail AT All-Terrain Tire (235/60R18 XL 107H)Cooper Discoverer Road and Trail AT All-Terrain Tire (235/60R18 XL 107H)
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire (LT265/70R17)BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire (LT265/70R17)

1. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17)

Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17)
Best Reviewed
An all-terrain tire designed for crossovers and smaller SUVs offering durable construction, year-round traction, and a long tread-life warranty.
Size225/65R17
Load Capacity1874 Pounds
Tread Depth11 32nds
Construction TypeRadial
UTQG680AA

The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is an all-terrain radial tire built for crossover SUVs and delivers a balance of off-road grip and on-road comfort. It is typically fitted on a single-vehicle axle position and used by drivers who split time between paved commutes and gravel or light trail driving. Notable features include a crossover-specific construction for improved handling on taller CUVs, a rugged upper sidewall with 2-ply polyester for puncture resistance, and 3D Canyon Sipe Technology that preserves biting edges for wet and winter traction as the tread wears. Practical benefits include strong all-weather performance including Three Peak Mountain Snowflake winter certification, a manufacturer-backed 65,000-mile limited tread-life, and a tread pattern that resists uneven wear for longer service life. Limitations to consider are that an aggressive all-terrain tread can reduce fuel economy slightly and may be noisier or less responsive than a dedicated highway tire at high speeds, and drivers who need peak ice traction or maximum off-road mud capability may prefer a more specialized winter or mud-terrain tire.

Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a durable, long-lasting tire for mixed on-/off-road use on their Mazda CX-5 and want predictable year-round traction and low maintenance over long mileage.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who require the highest possible ice grip, a tire tuned for aggressive off-road mud, or who prioritize maximum fuel economy and high-speed responsiveness over rugged durability.

Pros:
  • Crossover-specific construction tuned for taller CUV handling and stability.
  • Durable 2-ply polyester and rugged upper sidewall for better resistance to off-road damage.
  • 3D Canyon Sipe Technology and deep tread provide dependable wet and winter traction.
  • Backed by a 65,000-mile limited manufacturer tread-life coverage.
  • Optimized design and silica-based compound to reduce uneven wear and extend tread life.
Cons:
  • All-terrain tread can modestly reduce fuel economy and blunt acceleration compared with highway tires.
  • Not a dedicated winter or mud-terrain tire, so extreme ice or deep-mud performance is limited.

Verdict A durable, crossover-tuned all-terrain tire that gives Mazda CX-5 drivers reliable year-round traction and long tread life, with a small fuel and on-road performance compromise.

2. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Light Truck Tire

Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Light Truck Tire
An all-terrain light truck tire designed for longer tread life and improved traction across mixed surfaces.
Size225/65R17 102H
Load Capacity1874 Pounds
Tread TypeSymmetrical
Maximum Pressure44 Pound per Square Inch
UTQG640 A B

The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is an all-terrain tire built to resist cuts and chipping while delivering confident traction on pavement, mud and light snow. It uses a tougher rubber compound, reinforced shoulder blocks and alternating tread blocks with deep grooves and stone ejectors to stay grippy and shed debris, which helps extend tread life in mixed driving. For a Mazda CX-5, this 225/65R17 size is a common fit and will typically be used for daily driving with occasional dirt roads or snowy commutes. Real-world benefits include a quieter, smoother ride than many aggressive AT tires and solid wet and winter traction; several buyers also note a road-hugging feel and reduced road noise. Limitations are variable durability reports and the tire comes black-walled despite some images showing lettering, so appearance may differ from expectations. Check manufacture date and installer fitment when having these mounted on a CX-5 to avoid surprises.

Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a versatile, low-maintenance tire that handles daily road use plus occasional dirt or snow without constant attention.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan serious off-road rock crawling or need maximum sidewall protection for heavy-duty off-roading should choose a purpose-built off-road tire instead.

Pros:
  • Cut-and-chip resistant compound for longer tread life
  • Alternating tread blocks and deep grooves improve all-terrain traction and self-cleaning
  • Reinforced shoulder blocks for added protection against damage
  • Quieter, smoother ride than many aggressive all-terrain tires
Cons:
  • Some owners report premature wear or tread separation on high-mileage examples
  • Product images may show raised white lettering but the tire ships black-walled

Verdict A quiet, road-friendly all-terrain that balances tread life and mixed-surface grip for CX-5 drivers who prioritize convenience over extreme off-road capability.

3. SuperATV XT Warrior Off Road Tire — 32×10-15

SuperATV XT Warrior Off Road Tire — 32x10-15
Best Quality
A 6-ply, aramid-belted off-road tire designed for aggressive traction across varied terrain with a V-shaped asymmetrical tread pattern.
Load Index75.00
Speed Rating75 L
Load Capacity852 Pounds
Tread TypeAsymmetrical
Ply6-Ply

This SuperATV XT Warrior tire is built for heavy-duty off-road performance, featuring an aramid (Kevlar) belt construction and a V-shaped asymmetrical tread that sheds mud and grips loose surfaces. It is typically used on trail machines and aggressive recreational rigs where traction in sand, mud, and mixed terrain matters more than quiet highway manners. Notable features include the aramid-reinforced belt for added strength and a tread profile engineered for cleanout and bite, which translates to confident accelera­tion and lateral grip off-road. Practical benefits include durable 6-ply construction that resists punctures and a tread compound aimed at year-round use. Important limitations are its aggressive nature on pavement where customers report vibration or wobble at higher road speeds, and the 32×10-15 size restricts fitment to compatible wheel and vehicle setups. For a Mazda CX-5 this tire would only be appropriate if the vehicle is heavily modified for off-road use with compatible wheel and suspension changes; otherwise it will compromise on-road comfort and handling.

Best for: Performance-oriented buyers seeking maximum off-road traction and durability for heavily modified vehicles prepared for trail work and recreational off-roading.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize quiet, comfortable highway driving or those who will not modify wheel and suspension fitment should look for a more street-oriented tire.

Pros:
  • Aramid (Kevlar) belt construction for increased strength and durability
  • V-shaped asymmetrical tread designed to shed mud and maintain traction in loose terrain
  • 6-ply build that improves puncture resistance for rugged off-road use
  • Year-round tread compound formulated to perform across a range of conditions
Cons:
  • Aggressive tread can produce vibration and reduced comfort at higher road speeds
  • Size and aggressive design make it unsuitable for unmodified street-focused vehicles

Verdict Choose this tire if you need a rugged, Kevlar‑belted off-road tire for aggressive traction; skip it if you want refined on-road comfort for a stock CX-5.

4. GT Radial Adventuro ATX All-Terrain 265/65R17 Tire

GT Radial Adventuro ATX All-Terrain 265/65R17 Tire
Best Budget
A budget-friendly all-terrain radial tire designed to balance on-road comfort and off-road traction with a three-peak mountain snowflake rating.
Rim Size17 Inches
Load Index112
Speed RatingT
SeasonsYear Round
Construction TypeRadial

The GT Radial Adventuro ATX is an all-terrain radial intended to give drivers a mix of pavement manners and light off-road capability. It is typically used as a seasonal or year-round replacement for vehicles that need better traction on dirt, gravel, and occasional snow while still preserving a comfortable highway ride. Notable features include sidewall cleats and stair-step grooves for added grip off pavement, interlocked center ribs for on-road stability, and a 3PMSF mark that improves confidence in winter conditions. Practical benefits include quieter-than-aggressive AT tires, predictable wet handling thanks to wide shoulder channels, and a cut-and-chip resistant compound that helps resist damage from rough surfaces. Limitations to consider are the tire size and load labeling which should match the vehicle’s requirements, and the 4-ply construction and light truck load range which prioritize value over heavy-duty commercial use. Expect good value for occasional towing and daily driving but not the long-term robustness of premium all-terrain designs.

Best for: Budget-conscious Mazda CX-5 owners who want a versatile tire that improves light off-road and winter capability without paying for premium all-terrain models.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly carry heavy loads, tow frequently, or require aggressive off-road capability should consider heavier-duty or premium all-terrain tires instead.

Pros:
  • Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for improved winter traction
  • Tread design with sidewall cleats and stair-step grooves improves off-road grip
  • Interlocked center ribs and wide shoulder channels deliver stable on-road handling and wet performance
  • Cut-and-chip resistant compound for better durability on rough surfaces
Cons:
  • 4-ply construction and SL load range are aimed at value rather than heavy commercial loads
  • Size must match Mazda CX-5 wheel and clearance requirements before installation

Verdict A value-oriented all-terrain option for Mazda CX-5 owners who want improved snow and light off-road traction without the cost of premium AT tires.

5. Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure LT275/70R18 Tire

Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure LT275/70R18 Tire
Most Sold
A Goodyear all-terrain light truck tire designed for mixed on-road comfort and occasional off-road use with a 60,000-mile tread life limited warranty.
SizeLT275/70R18
Tread Depth10 32nds
Load Capacity3638 Pounds
Speed RatingR
Ply10-Ply

The Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure is an all-terrain light truck tire built to balance quiet on-road manners with the ability to handle rougher surfaces when needed. It uses reinforced construction including DuPont Kevlar fiber and Goodyear’s Durawall technology to resist punctures and sidewall damage, and comes with a 60,000-mile tread life limited warranty. In everyday use it delivers a comfortable, low-noise ride and confident wet traction thanks to a symmetrical tread and siping pattern, while the 10-ply rating and high load capacity are aimed at heavier vehicles and towing. Trade-offs are its light-truck sizing and taller overall diameter which make it physically large for compact crossovers like the Mazda CX-5, and its non-winter designation means studded snow or severe-ice performance is limited. Tires are sold individually and must be matched to your vehicle’s wheel size and clearance; expect a firmer ride when fitted to smaller SUVs and verify fitment and speed/load ratings for your CX-5 before purchase.

Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize durability and long tread life and want a tire that tolerates occasional off-road use while keeping highway comfort.

Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a compact crossover tire optimized for ride comfort and fuel economy, or those who need certified winter performance for severe snow and ice.

Pros:
  • Durawall and Kevlar reinforcement improve puncture and sidewall resistance.
  • 60,000-mile tread life limited warranty for long highway mileage.
  • Symmetrical tread with siping that reduces road noise and improves wet grip.
  • High load capacity suitable for heavier duty use and towing.
Cons:
  • Size and load rating are targeted at light trucks and may not be appropriate for compact SUVs without fitment adjustments.
  • Not rated for winter use so performance on snow and ice is limited.

Verdict A durable, long-wearing all-terrain tire built for heavier trucks and towing but check fitment carefully before using on a Mazda CX-5.

6. Cooper Discoverer Road and Trail AT All-Terrain Tire (235/60R18 XL 107H)

Cooper Discoverer Road and Trail AT All-Terrain Tire (235/60R18 XL 107H)
Best Value for Money
An all-terrain SUV tire designed to balance on-road comfort, light off-road capability, and snow traction for everyday mixed use.
Size235/60R18 XL 107H
Tread Depth12 32nds
Construction TypeRadial
Load Capacity2149 Pounds
UTQG620-A-B

The Cooper Discoverer Road + Trail AT is an all-terrain tire aimed at drivers who split time between pavement and light trails. Its continuous tread that extends down the sidewall and interlocking tread blocks are built to resist cuts and provide extra grip on soft surfaces, while connected center lugs improve traction in snow. You can expect a quieter, smoother ride than many aggressive AT designs and more even tread wear for longer life. The tire carries a severe snow designation, making it a reasonable choice for winter driving around town. Practical benefits include improved durability on rough roads and predictable handling at highway speeds. Important limitations are that this is a balanced AT rather than a mud-terrain, so it will not match aggressive tires for deep mud or rock crawling, and the XL load rating is focused on heavier SUVs so verify size and load needs for your vehicle. For a Mazda CX-5 this size provides an approachable mix of comfort, winter capability, and trail readiness without sacrificing daily drivability.

Best for: Practical optimizers who want a sensible upgrade for their Mazda CX-5 that prioritizes everyday comfort, predictable handling, and occasional light off-road or winter use without paying for extreme off-road capability.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently tackle deep mud, rock trails, or need the most aggressive off-road traction should choose a more specialized mud-terrain tire instead.

Pros:
  • Balanced tread design delivers quieter, smoother on-road ride compared with aggressive AT tires
  • Interlocking tread blocks and tougher sidewall coverage resist cuts and promote even wear on mixed surfaces
  • Connected center tread lugs improve traction and stability in snow, carrying a severe snow designation
  • Limited tread-life warranty and a 45-day satisfaction guarantee provide buyer protection and confidence
Cons:
  • Not intended for extreme off-road tasks like deep mud or rock crawling where more aggressive tires excel
  • Specific size must match vehicle fitment; this listing is a single tire so buy full sets as needed

Verdict A well-rounded, value-minded all-terrain that gives Mazda CX-5 owners improved durability, snow traction, and a quiet highway ride while avoiding extreme off-road aggression.

7. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire (LT265/70R17)

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire (LT265/70R17)
Best Overall
A rugged all-terrain radial tire designed to deliver durable on- and off-road traction with severe winter capability for light trucks and SUVs.
SizeLT265/70R17/C 112/109S
Load Capacity2470 Pounds
Tread Depth15 32nds
Maximum Pressure50 Pound per Square Inch
Construction TypeRadial

The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is an all-terrain radial built for year-round use, offering aggressive grip off-road while remaining composed on pavement. It is typically used on SUVs and light trucks as a replacement tire when drivers want one set that handles dirt, mud, rocks and snow without swapping tires seasonally. Notable features include interlocking tread elements for more even wear, locking 3-D sipes for tread block stability, reinforced CoreGard technology for tougher sidewalls, and a three-peak mountain snowflake rating for severe winter performance. In practice that means confident traction in snow and solid resistance to sidewall damage when you encounter rough terrain or roadside hazards. Expect a generally comfortable ride with relatively low road noise for an all-terrain tire and longer tread life compared with previous KO designs. The main compromises are that an aggressive all-terrain compound can wear faster than highway-focused tires in pure pavement use and it will not match dedicated mud-terrain performance in deep mud.

Best for: Balanced buyers who want one capable tire that handles daily driving, occasional off-road trails, and winter conditions without swapping sets and who prioritize versatility over specialized extremes.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who spend the majority of miles on smooth highway pavement seeking maximum tread life or who need specialized mud-terrain performance for extreme off-road use.

Pros:
  • Severe winter three-peak mountain snowflake rating ensures reliable snow traction
  • Interlocking tread design and locking 3-D sipes promote even wear and stable handling
  • CoreGard reinforced sidewall construction increases resistance to sidewall splitting
  • Good on- and off-road balance with relatively low road noise for an all-terrain tire
Cons:
  • All-terrain compound may wear faster than highway-focused tires during mostly pavement driving
  • Not optimized for extreme mud-terrain traction compared with dedicated mud tires

Verdict A tough, versatile all-terrain tire that gives Mazda CX-5 owners confident year-round traction and sidewall protection while sacrificing some tread life versus highway-focused tires.

Choosing the Right Mazda CX-5 All Terrain Tires: Key Factors to Consider

Tread Pattern and Compound

Tread pattern and rubber compound determine how well a tire grips different surfaces. Deeper, more aggressive patterns shed mud and gravel better, while denser siping and softer compounds improve wet traction. A compound that is too soft can wear quickly on pavement, while too hard a compound reduces grip in cool or wet conditions.

Consider the balance you need between off-road bite and highway stability. For a crossover like the Mazda CX-5, look for patterns that provide lateral stability at speed and enough void area to evacuate water without producing excessive road noise.

Noise and Ride Comfort

All-terrain tires range from smooth, highway-oriented designs to chunky, off-road-focused patterns that generate more road noise. Noise levels affect long-distance comfort and cabin calm, especially on a quieter crossover.

Ride comfort depends on sidewall construction and tread block geometry. Reinforced sidewalls can improve durability but may transmit more vibration. Prioritize tires that advertise reduced road noise or pattern optimization if you spend most miles on pavement.

Tread Life and Wear Characteristics

Expected tread life matters for long-term value. Treadwear depends on compound hardness, tread depth, and driving habits. Tires with wider contact patches can wear unevenly if alignment or rotation schedules are neglected.

Look for predictable wear patterns and available treadwear warranties as indicators of longevity. Rotating tires on schedule and maintaining proper inflation are essential to realize the manufacturer’s projected mileage.

Wet and Dry Braking Performance

Braking performance varies with tread design, siping, and compound. Good wet braking requires effective water evacuation and enough biting edges to maintain contact. Dry braking benefits from a stable contact patch and minimal tread deformation under load.

For safety on mixed roads, prioritize tires that balance wet and dry stopping ability. Consider reviews and test data that report braking distances under both conditions when available.

Load Rating and Size Fitment

Load rating ensures each tire can safely carry the weight of your Mazda CX-5 plus cargo. Using tires with insufficient load capacity risks premature wear and handling issues. Size fitment affects speedometer accuracy, clearance, and suspension geometry.

Verify the tire sizes supported by your vehicle’s wheel options and choose a load rating that matches or exceeds the factory specification. If you plan larger wheels or lift changes, recheck clearances and load requirements accordingly.

Off-road Capability Versus On-road Trade-offs

All-terrain tires try to bridge off-road traction and on-road civility. More aggressive off-road-focused tires will typically yield louder noise, harsher ride, and faster wear on pavement. Conversely, highway-biased ATs sacrifice some bite on loose surfaces for quieter, smoother highway manners.

Decide how much off-road performance you truly need. If your driving is mostly pavement with occasional dirt roads, favor quieter, longer-lasting AT designs. If you regularly encounter rough trails, accept some on-road compromises for improved traction.

FAQ

Are all terrain tires a good choice for a Mazda CX-5?

All-terrain tires can be a good fit if you need occasional light off-road traction while keeping acceptable highway comfort. They offer more grip on gravel and light mud than highway tires, but they also tend to be noisier and may wear faster if driven mostly on pavement. The right choice depends on how much off-pavement driving you do versus highway use.

How do I choose the right size and load rating for the CX-5?

Start with the factory-recommended tire sizes and load index listed on your vehicle placard. Choose tires that match those sizes or consult a professional if you plan a different wheel size. Make sure the load rating equals or exceeds the factory specification to maintain handling and safety under typical cargo conditions.

Will fitting all terrain tires affect fuel economy?

Yes, all-terrain tires often increase rolling resistance compared with highway-focused tires, which can result in a modest fuel economy penalty. The exact impact depends on tread aggressiveness and tire width. Proper inflation and alignment help minimize any fuel consumption losses.

How can I maximize tread life for all terrain tires?

Regular maintenance extends tread life. Rotate tires at recommended intervals, maintain correct inflation pressures, and keep wheel alignment within factory specs. Driving habits also matter; smooth acceleration and braking reduce uneven wear and help the tires last longer.

Are winter conditions a concern with all terrain tires?

Many all-terrain designs perform reasonably well in mild winter conditions thanks to siping and softer compounds, but not all are optimized for severe snow and ice. For frequent winter driving, consider a dedicated winter tire for the coldest months. Look for markings that indicate winter capability if you expect snowy conditions.

How We Chose the Best Mazda CX-5 All Terrain Tires

We focused on criteria that matter specifically for Mazda CX-5 owners who want a true all-terrain capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. Key evaluation points included tread compound and pattern, which influence grip on wet surfaces and loose terrain; ride comfort and noise, assessed by predicted road manners and tread design; expected tread life and wear characteristics, estimated from construction and compound data; wet and dry braking performance, indicated by compound and siping; and fitment and load rating, ensuring each tire supports typical CX-5 weights and common wheel sizes. We excluded tires that are exclusively mud-terrain or highway-terrain; our list targets true all-terrain designs that balance off-road capability with everyday drivability. Tires with unclear load ratings or nonstandard sizes for the CX-5 were also omitted. The final selections prioritize predictable handling, repeatable wet-weather performance, and reasonable longevity for drivers who split time between pavement and light off-road use.

Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.

Conclusion

Choosing all terrain tires for a Mazda CX-5 is about balancing off-road capability with on-road comfort. Prioritize tread design and compound for the surfaces you encounter most, and confirm size and load rating match your vehicle’s requirements. Accept the tradeoffs: more aggressive tread equals better loose-surface grip but usually more noise and faster wear. Focus on the criteria that align with your driving pattern to find the best compromise for everyday use and occasional off-pavement adventures.

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Mike - Certified Professional Automotive Mechanic

About the Author: Mike

Mike is an experienced professional automotive mechanic with hands-on experience maintaining and repairing a wide range of vehicles. At VehicleRuns, he focuses on helping car owners make better decisions about parts, tools, and repairs by combining real-world experience with clear, practical guidance.